Despite being the capital city of Azerbaijan, Baku is also a low-lying beautiful city that is rich in oil reserves. It lies perfectly on the Caspian coastline making it an ideal trading hub and it’s famed for its iconic historical landmarks. The perfect blend of old and new architecture to the city makes it such an intriguing place to want to visit. From the famous medieval walled old city to the iconic stone Maiden Tower, there are a lot of wonderful things that make Baku such an attractive city. Read on to know more about things to do in Baku, Azerbaijan.
1. Take a tour of National History Museum of Azerbaijan
Posted by Milli Azərbaycan Tarixi Muzeyi The National Museum of history of Azerbaijan on Friday, 18 January 2019
Located in the capital city, Baku, National History Museum of Azerbaijan is the largest museum in the whole of Azerbaijan. It’s a place worth visiting if you’re curious about Azerbaijan’s history. This historical structure is found now on what used to be the former mansion of Azerbaijan’s oil baron and philanthropist, Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev. The museum was established in 1920 and is dedicated to collecting and showcasing a variety of different things. The collections depict the transformation of Azerbaijan in spiritual culture, social-economic and political history, from prehistoric to present day. Most emphasis is laid on the conflict with Armenia.
National History Museum of Azerbaijan
Address: 4 Haji Zeynalabdin Taghiyev St, Baku 1005, Azerbaijan
Website: National History Museum of Azerbaijan
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon)
2. Visit National Flag Square
Posted by Miaozhuang Qian on Wednesday, 26 June 2019
The National Flag Square, also known as Beyragh Meidani, is a large city square that is situated off Neftchiler Avenue in Bayil, Baku. It features one of Azerbaijan’s historical attractions, a flagpole measuring 162 m (531.50 feet) high and a flag measuring 70 by 35 m (229.66 by 114.83 feet). Although today it’s not the tallest, the flagpole earned its place in the Guinness Book of Records when it was confirmed as the world’s tallest flagpole. The lovely square sits on a 60-hectare (150 acres) piece of land and it’s a true representation of Azerbaijan’s state symbols, the coat of arms, the anthem, and the country’s map.
3. Explore the House of Government
Posted by Kirk Hall on Saturday, 9 March 2019
Also known as the Government House of Baku, House of Government is a historical government building that houses various state ministries of Azerbaijan. This gigantic eleven-storied architecture was designed and built during the Soviet times. Its construction spanned for about 16 years until its completion in 1952. Opposite the building is the Baku Boulevard and the lovely Caspian Sea. The building was designed to accommodate up to 5,500 people and has its rear side facing the busy Uzeyir Hajibeyov Street. Before the building was renovated in 1991, it used to house many organizations and business firms after Azerbaijan had gained its independence.
House of Government
Address: 84 Uzeyir Hajibeyov, Baku 1000, Azerbaijan
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 6pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
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4. Walk the streets of Icheri Sheher (Inner City) (from USD 135.0)
This is one of the places that should be on top of your list to visit during your vacation in Baku. Icheri Sheher or Old City as known by most people is a truly unique and historical part of Azerbaijan. The Old City was renovated not so long ago and paints a very clean image. The city is made up of an artful town with beautiful streets and it’s surrounded by fortressed walls. Wander through the city as you admire the aged buildings, the palace complex, and the iconic Maiden Tower. Before you finish your tour, you can buy souvenirs for your memories.
Mystic of Icheri Sheher
Duration: 4 hours
5. Marvel at the architecture of Teze Pir Mosque
One of Azerbaijan’s historical landmarks is Teze Pir Mosque situated in Baku. This is one of the finest works of architecture in the country by of the greatest architects, Ziver bey Ahmadbeyov. The mosque features extensive decoration and designs. The mosque is strategically perched on a hill making it visible from many parts of the city. Before large skyscrapers were built, Teze Pir Mosque used to make a wonderful silhouette on the cityscape. Its main facade is a deep, three-arch portico with minarets on either side. Enjoy a magnificent view of the elastic line of the dome, an exquisite work of architecture.
Teze Pir Mosque
Address: 7 Mirza Fatali Akhundov, Baku 1001, Azerbaijan
Website: Teze Pir Mosque
6. Bask in the chill vibe of Fountain Square
Posted by irina_matsak_ on Friday, 23 August 2019
Is your romantic getaway getting to a climax and are looking for a convenient place to take your loved one for a date? In Baku, there is no better place to be than Fountain Square, a favorite place for strolling and even meeting people. The square offers such a tranquil atmosphere that you will always find couples, families, and even colleagues walking around leisurely. On site is Fisincan restaurant, where you can enjoy a traditional Azeri cuisine among other delicious meals. You can even grab dovga yogurt, sit., and relax as you watch people walking peacefully around the square.
Fountain Square
Address: Baku 1005, Azerbaijan
Opening hours: 24 Hours (daily)
7. Ride a gondola at Mini-Venice
Posted by Yvonne Ho Sang on Saturday, 17 August 2019
Baku is a popular tourist destination in Azerbaijan due to its attractive historical landmarks. Mini-Venice is one of those hidden gems of Baku that you should visit before your vacation is over. This small town is in Baku Boulevard and it features two large islands and several other small ones. These beautiful islands are linked together by decorative stone bridges. You can pay for a ride on one of the gondolas and enjoy a boat ride as you traverse this magnificent town. After your wonderful sightseeing, you can stop by at one of the restaurants and enjoy some Azerbaijanian tasty dishes.
Mini-Venice
Address: 73 Neftchilar Ave, Baku 1004, Azerbaijan
Opening hours: 10:30am - 11:30pm (daily)
8. Be awed by the ancient architecture at Nizami Street
Posted by Kiran Bhatia on Friday, 23 August 2019
Situated in downtown Baku is Nizami Street, a large beautiful shopping street that was named in honor of classical Persian poet Nizami Ganjavi. You might want to do some shopping or buying gifts for your loved ones while still on vacation in Baku. Nizami Street features some fancy and glamorous shopping boutiques, supermarkets, and souvenir shops. Both locals and visitors stream down here to have fun and dine. There are several eateries along the street where you can treat yourself to some mouthwatering Azerbaijan cuisine. Make sure to take photos of this magnificent street. It’s a place where you will have great fun.
9. Enjoy a ride at Baku Funicular
Posted by Robert Brady on Sunday, 23 June 2019
One of the interesting attractions of Baku is Baku Funicular, which connects a square on Neftchilar Avenue and Martyr’s Lane. Unlike other iconic attractions in Baku, Baku Funicular is unique because it is the only funicular system in the country. This modernized system makes it for people to access the city’s hilly streets at the same time offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and the city’s skyline. At night, it is a wonderful sight to behold as it gets illuminated magnificently making it even more fun to commute after dark. It’s wonderful to come with your family for fun and sightseeing.
10. Stroll along Baku Boulevard
Baku Boulevard is a lovely promenade that has gorgeously manicured gardens and large walkways offering beautiful views of the city. The promenade lies along the Caspian shore. This is an ideal place to come with family to have fun and enjoy some quality time. There are fun activities that kids can engage in like enjoying a ride on a wheeled train that takes you to the end of the boulevard. There are also several restaurants and cafes on-site where you can enjoy some delectable Azerbaijan cuisine. In case you might want to do some shopping, Park Bulvar mall is also there.
Baku Boulevard
Address: 92 Neftchilar Ave, Baku, Azerbaijan
Website: Baku Boulevard
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
11. Tour Palace of Happiness
Now the Palace of Marriage registrations but not so happy for the original owner Murtuza Mukhtarov who built it for his...
Posted by Tarek Raafat on Tuesday, 6 August 2019
The Palace of Happiness, also known as Palace of Marriage Registrations, is a historic landmark situated strategically at the center of Baku. The architecture of the palace is of Neo-Gothic style which was widely used in the early 20th century. The palace was previously used as a home built by millionaire Mukhtarov as a surprise valentine’s gift for his second wife. The palace features two parts; the first part which is designed for hosting corporate meetings and the second part for weddings. For more than a century, the beauty and the amazing architectural tranquility has had both local and international tourists visiting.
Palace of Happiness
Address: 6 Murtuza Mukhtarov, Baku 1005, Azerbaijan
12. See the amazing structure of Ismailiyya Palace
Ismailiyye (1907-1913) Ismailiyye building was built by Baku millionaire Musa Nagiyev in memory of his son died at young...
Posted by Azerbaijan Art & Architecture on Sunday, 20 October 2013
Baku is a place of great architecture and Ismailiyya Palace is among the many great structural designs in the country. Built as a commemoration of Ismail, the late son of Azerbaijan’s oil baron Musa Naghiyev, the building today has been transformed to a Presidium of the Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan. It features the impressive architectural works of the Polish architect, Józef Płoszko for the Muslim Charity Society. The building features a white stone assembly hall that hosted conferences, meetings, and even congresses. The palace carries a rich history of the people of Azerbaijan and also serves as a major tourist attraction.
Ismailiyya Palace
Address: Istiglaliyyat St., 10, Baku 1005, Azerbaijan
13. Cruise the Caspian Sea
What can be a better way to enjoy a romantic evening during your vacation than taking a Caspian Sea Cruise? This is a marvelous opportunity to catch wonderful glimpses of the evening skyline while traversing the sea waters. As you drift to the bay on your cruise ship, you will be able to see breathtaking views of the glowing Flame Towers and the illuminated city of Baku. The Caspian Sea has always attracted tourists to come to visit here for the holidays. Explore the magnificent geography of Azerbaijan from a luxurious ship as you sip on drinks. There is a project of linking some Caspian countries through a sea cruise-based tourism.
14. Browse the exhibits at Nizami Museum of Azerbaijani Literature
Posted by Zamir Tagiev on Wednesday, 6 March 2019
Named after Nizami Ganjavi, a genius poet and thinker, the Nizami Museum of Azerbaijani Literature is located in the heart of Baku, a few minutes from Fountain Square. This magnificent building attracts people even from a distance with its blue majolica on the façade with statues of the nation’s literary greats. Today, this museum is one of the greatest and most valuable treasures of Azerbaijan culture. The museum focuses on researching, collecting, preserving, and showcasing materials that represent major historical and cultural events in the history of Azerbaijan. For the lovers of history, you can visit this museum and learn about Azerbaijan.
Nizami Museum of Azerbaijani Literature
Address: 53 Istiglaliyyat, Baku 1005, Azerbaijan
Website: Nizami Museum of Azerbaijani Literature
Opening hours: 11am - 5pm (daily)
15. Check out the lovely Baku Museum of Miniature Books
Posted by Selahattin Özkök on Friday, 23 August 2019
The Museum of Miniature Books in Baku is one of a kind, perhaps one where you must pay a visit. It has been proudly certified in Guinness Book of World Records as the largest collection of miniature books in the world. Researchers, academicians, and other interested people come from all over the world to come to tour this museum. The museum was opened with the aim of inspiring the younger generations to become friendlier with books. Inside you will find thousands of books from 64 different countries. Among the many books, there are the three smallest books in the world that require a microscope to read.
Baku Museum of Miniature Books
Address: 67, Baku 1000, Azerbaijan
Website: Baku Museum of Miniature Books
Opening hours: Tue - Wed, Fri - Sun: 11am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Thu)
16. Enjoy a stroll at Upland Park
Situated on the shores of the Caspian Sea, Upland Park is one of the nicest places in Baku to enjoy some time out. This park represents the highest point in the capital and the surrounding area offering a panoramic view of the city and its bay. Despite coming here to enjoy romantic walks, residents and visitors often come here for a bird’s eye view. There are other attractions in the park to catch your attention including the alley of martyrs and the Flame Towers. You can use the funicular to get to the park as you also enjoy beautiful views.
Upland Park
Address: Baku, Azerbaijan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
17. Go cycling at Füzuli Park
Füzuli Park is among the many beautiful parks around Baku that get tourists trickling down the place. Located a few minutes from 28 May Metro Station, the beautiful park covers more than 600 m (1969 feet) of land. The park features lovely marble pathways that are lined with flowerpots in the center and sandstone buildings to the side making it such a picturesque place to hang around. The pathways offer the perfect place to come enjoy riding a bike or even skating. The park is also a sight to behold during the night as it gets illuminated with lights of buildings on the hills to the north.
Füzuli Park
Address: Rasul Rza, Bakı, Azerbaijan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
18. Explore and catch a show at Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre
Posted by Juan Padra on Saturday, 10 August 2019
Formerly known as the Mailov Theater, the Akhundov Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre is a beautiful historic building and a major historical attraction in Baku. This is among the many hidden gems in Baku and its architecture features the Art Nouveau style. Make sure to visit this theater and learn about the many myths that are associated with the theater. It is believed that the building was initially built as an Opera house because its owner Magnate Mailov was fond of Opera. The structure features an intricate façade that will catch your eye from afar. It is used to host live events and performing arts.
Azerbaijan State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre
Address: Baku, Azerbaijan
19. Admire the beautiful architecture of Bibi-Heybat Mosque
Həzrəti Xanim Həkimə (ə) pak hərəmindən Salam olsun.
Posted by Araz Babazade on Thursday, 22 August 2019
The Bibi-Heybat Mosque was built after Azerbaijan had gained independence from USSR. This mosque was created to resemble the original mosque that was destroyed during the Soviet regime. The new mosque features sophisticated architecture that is fitted with several reflective windows that mirror the Caspian Sea. On the inside, the mosque has different parts, one of which is a carpeted prayer room and a magnificent separate room that serves as a mausoleum of Ukeyma Khanum. It is where the Shia Muslims in the region gather to worship. It is an attractive structure with charming beauty and a lot to learn about this fascinating religion.
20. Shop at Azerbaijan's largest mall, Ganjlik Mall
Posted by Ganjlik Mall on Monday, 29 January 2018
Would you like to go and do some shopping around Baku? Then head to Ganlik Mall, a state-of-the-art shopping complex in the capital of Azerbaijan. It is in fact, the largest shopping mall in Azerbaijan and features a central atrium and attractive external facades. The mall offers one-stop shopping and has turned into a shopping paradise for locals and tourists who come to visit Baku. Celebrities and famous people come to shop here. This is because the mall contains famous fashion brands and elegant cafes with charming city views. Entertainment joints include a multiplex cinema, bowling, and family entertainment offers.
Ganjlik Mall
Address: 14 Fatali Khan Khoyski, Baku, Azerbaijan
Website: Ganjlik Mall
Opening hours: 10am - 10pm (daily)
21. Catch a performance at Baku Crystal Hall
Located on the coast of Baku near the National Flag Square is Baku Crystal Hall, an indoor arena. One of Azerbaijan’s major tourist attractions, this arena features fascinating architecture design. It features a lightweight steel structure with a faceted membrane façade intended to resemble cut crystal. The arena is designed to hold different sporting events and serve as a concert arena. Upon its completion in 2012, the Baku Crystal Hall was honored to host the 57th Eurovision Song Contest. During concerts and other live events, the arena creates such a thrilling atmosphere. The arena also ranks as the fifth-largest indoor arena in the world.
Baku Crystal Hall
Address: Sabail District, Settlement, National Flag Square, AZ1003, Baku, Azerbaijan
Website: Baku Crystal Hall
22. Shop for fresh vegetables and fruits at Yaşıl Bazar
Posted by Oleg Pesahov on Thursday, 15 August 2019
Would you like to go shop for some fresh vegetables and fruits? Then write down your shopping list and head down to Yaşıl Bazar. This is a traditional bazaar that is stuffed with fresh farm produce that is grown locally. This is a favorite shopping place for the locals due to the fairly affordable prices with even an option to bargain. You may be someone who strictly wants to eat purely organic; this is where you will find all the organic food. The people here are very friendly and will communicate to you in a humble way making you feel welcome.
Yaşıl Bazar
Address: Khatai Ave, Baku, Azerbaijan
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
23. Enjoy a tour of Baku Olympic Stadium (from USD 72.1)
Football is one of the most embraced sports in this digital era and that’s why structures like the Baku Olympic Stadium are being built to meet the ever-increasing needs of the sport. This stadium holds a capacity of 68,700 seats and features state-of-the-art facilities. Actually, the stadium was used to host this year’s Europa League Final between English giants, Arsenal and Chelsea FC. Taste VIP experience at the top level of the main stand as you enjoy thrilling views of the pitch and the city. The most eye-catching areas of the stadium are the luxurious skyboxes, the lounges, and the VIP zones.
Baku: VIP Olympic Stadium Tour
Duration: 2 hour
24. Make a stop at Flame Towers (from USD 35.0)
The Flame Towers features a trio of skyscrapers and is perfectly perched on a hill overlooking Baku Bay and the Old City. The tallest of those towers measures 182 m (597.11 feet). During the night when the lights are on, the towers usually have a stunning view. The sleek flame-shaped towers have added a new and exciting dimension to the dazzling beauty of Azerbaijan’s skyline. The towers might appear to resemble each other in appearance, but they all serve specific functions. There’s also a retail podium with social and entertainments joints that serves as the anchor of all three towers.
Magic Nights of Baku
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
25. Tour Palace of the Shirvanshas (from USD 8.0)
The Palace of the Shirvanshahs is a 15th-century palace built by the Shirbanshahs and one of the iconic landmarks in the city of Baku. The palace is located in the Inner City of Baku and was branded by UNESCO as one of the pearls of Azerbaijan’s architecture. The complex features the main palace, the shah’s mosque with a minaret, Divanhane, and the burial-vaults, among other features. Even though there remains no evidence of a wall, the palace used to be surrounded by a wall with towers. This palace is recognized as a historic monument under the UNESCO World Heritage List of Historical Monuments.
Palace of the Shirvanshahs Admission Ticket
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
26. See the famous Maiden's Tower (from USD 9.0)
Located in the Old City, Baku, Maiden’s Tower is one of Azerbaijan’s most recognized landmarks. It represents the core of the city’s historical importance. Both local and international tourists trickle down here to come and explore this mysterious architecture. Although its purpose may not be clearly identified, Maiden Tower houses a museum and a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs. Make sure to climb to the top of the tower and enjoy breathtaking views of wonderful streets, Baku Boulevard, De Gaulle house and the Baku Bay area. This tour will enlighten you about the transformation of Baku since ancient days.
Maiden Tower Admission Ticket
Duration: 1 hour
27. See the breathtaking modern architecture of Heydar Aliyev Center (from USD 70.0)
From the Maiden’s Tower to the Flame Towers, Baku boasts a number of pieces of architecture and the Heydar Aliyev Center ranks among the best. This complex was designed by an Iraqi-British architect, Zaha Hadid, exemplifying modern architecture that is truly innovative and impressive at the same time. Its mesmerizing design appears to fold in on itself, leaving no sharp angles but rather waves of undulation. On the inside, the complex offers a tranquil atmosphere covered with white space and curved lines. The center also features a gallery hall, an auditorium, Classic Cars Museum, and Azerbaijan Culture and History Museum.
Baku modern museums tour
Duration: 5 hours
28. Discover Ateshgah Fire Temple
The culture of fire worship has been predominantly practiced in many areas in Asia, including Azerbaijan, which was the birthplace of fire-worshiping religions. This is a country boasting endless reserves of petroleum that in some places when fires start, they can’t be stopped. These fires referred to as eternal flames last for several years burning constantly but without causing any damage. This is why Azerbaijan came to be nicknamed “The Land of Fire.” The Ateshgah Fire Temple in Baku is a prime example of fire-worshiping temples. This is known as a holy site of Zoroastrian origin. In this religion, fire symbolizes purity, truth, and respect.
Ateshgah Fire Temple Admission Ticket
Duration: 1 hour
29. Have fun riding Baku Eye (from USD 3.0)
Are you looking for a place that you can take your family in Baku and have fun? Look no further–just head to the Baku Eye, a sight to behold. This is one of Baku’s must-see attractions that gets tourists, both local and international, trickling down here. Enjoy thrilling views of the city with a ride on the Baku Eye Ferris wheel. This ride gives the chance to enjoy panoramic views of key landmarks around the capital and a wonderful glance over the Caspian Sea. During the night, the sight of the wheel is magical as it’s illuminated with beautiful lights.
Ferris Wheel (Baku Eye) Admission Ticket
Duration: 1 hour
30. Take a tour of Azerbaijan Carpet Museum (from USD 110.0)
In Azerbaijan and surrounding parts of Central Asia, one of the major cultural practices has been the weaving of carpets. Make a visit to the Carpet Museum and admire its unique attractive shape. In the museum, there are guided tours that will take you around as you learn a thing or two about carpet making. In Azerbaijan, carpets are of historic importance and hold high aesthetic value that’s they are used to cover floors in homes, mosques, government buildings, and other social areas. During your exploration you will come across a masterpiece by Zaha Hadid that is placed at the Heydar Aliyev Cultural Center.
Museums of Baku
Duration: 7 hours
Enjoy a sublime stay in Baku, Azerbaijan
One of the beautiful things about going for a vacation is being to visit new places and have fun. Baku boasts a number of attraction sites and historical landmarks that makes it number one tourist destination in Azerbaijan. Whether it’s a family vacation or a romantic getaway, you’re guaranteed to enjoy a truly wonderful vacation in Baku.
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